Medical Encyclopaedia › Hypertension (short definition)
In brief: High blood pressure (arterial hypertension) is present when blood pressure is permanently raised – according to European guidelines, from clinic readings of 140/90 mmHg. It causes no symptoms for a long time but is one of the most important risk factors for heart attack and stroke.
Causes and risk factors
In most cases it is primary (essential) hypertension, in which predisposition, age, overweight, lack of exercise, a high-salt diet, alcohol and stress interact. Less often, high blood pressure is the result of another disease, such as kidney disease, renal artery stenosis, hormonal disorders such as Conn’s syndrome, or sleep apnoea.
Measuring correctly
Single readings at the doctor’s surgery can be raised by nervousness. Home measurements over several days (threshold usually 135/85 mmHg) or 24-hour ambulatory monitoring are more meaningful. Measure after a few minutes’ rest while sitting, with a suitable cuff at heart level.
Consequences
Permanently raised pressure damages blood vessels and organs. Possible consequences are arteriosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, kidney damage and retinal damage.
Treatment
Lifestyle measures lower blood pressure measurably: weight loss if overweight, less salt, regular endurance exercise, little alcohol and stopping smoking. If this is not enough, medicines are used, often ACE inhibitors or sartans, calcium channel blockers and diuretics, frequently as a combination in a single tablet. The target value is set individually. Medicines should not be stopped on your own initiative.
When to see a doctor – and when to call an ambulance?
Repeatedly raised values should be assessed by a doctor. Very high values together with chest pain, shortness of breath, visual disturbances, paralysis or confusion are an emergency (call 112 in Europe).
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Blood pressure, Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, Hypertensive crisis, ACE inhibitors, Sartans, Calcium channel blockers, Diuretic, Arteriosclerosis, Stroke
Sources
- European Society of Hypertension (ESH): Leitlinie zur Behandlung der arteriellen Hypertonie 2023
- European Society of Cardiology (ESC): Leitlinie zu erhöhtem Blutdruck und Hypertonie 2024
- Deutsche Hochdruckliga e. V.: Informationen zu Bluthochdruck
- IQWiG: gesundheitsinformation.de – Gesundheitsinformationen des Instituts für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.